emorris0512's Profile

I know this thread is a bit older, but you should NEVER use soap on cast iron unless you want to go through the re-seasoning process again. Use coarse salt and a paper towel or balled up foil to scrub. Rinse in plain water IF and only IF you need too. dry completely. Then apply a very thin coating of veg or canola oil before storing. This is how my 95 year old grandmother has always done it. I now have her cast iron pan that was her monther's (so yes it is over 100 years old) and I have never had any issues with the pan. If you use any sort of soap it breaks down the seasoning. I also rehabilitated and pan I found at an antique shop buy using fine grit sand paper, and then going through the reseasoning process several times prior to using it. Also the first time you use the pan it is a good idea to cook something on the greasy side (bacon is great). It helps season the pan.